Across the vast grasslands and forests of South America, two extraordinary species—the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) and the giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus)—are facing a deadly challenge: the ever-growing human footprint on their natural habitats. These elusive animals are not only essential to biodiversity but are also caught in the crosshairs of a growing human- wildlife conflict that threatens their survival.
As agricultural development accelerates across Brazil’s Cerrado biome and other parts of South America, natural habitats are being carved up by highways and roads. These roads are lifelines for people and commerce—but they are proving to be death traps for wildlife.
For giant anteaters, the statistics are grim: they are now among the top species killed on Brazilian highways. These collisions are not just fatal for animals—they can be deadly for drivers, too. The size of an adult anteater can rival that of a small deer, and collisions often result in serious injuries or fatalities for both wildlife and humans.
Meanwhile, giant armadillos—naturally rare and largely nocturnal—are not spared. Although sightings are few and far between due to their shy nature, they also fall victim to vehicle strikes and habitat loss. Both species are suffering from a lack of habitat connectivity, pushing them into dangerous encounters with human infrastructure.
The tension between development and conservation is at the heart of this conflict. As roads fragment ecosystems, animals must cross them to find food, mates, and new territory. This increases the risk of accidents, disrupts natural behaviors, and can isolate populations genetically, reducing their chances of survival. And because both the giant anteater and the giant armadillo are elusive and reproduce slowly, every death has a significant impact on population numbers.
These human-wildlife conflicts highlight the urgent need for conservation strategies that balance development with ecosystem protection—especially for animals whose behavior is difficult to study in the wild.
The vulnerable giant anteater is one of the most unique and charismatic species in South America. With its elongated snout, bushy tail, and specialized diet of ants and termites, this animal plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations, naturally maintaining the balance of its ecosystem.
But there’s still so much we don’t know about them.
Ongoing research in the Cerrado is revealing important details about anteater behavior. One critical discovery is that male anteaters are not dispersing from their birth territories as expected. This has significant implications for the genetic diversity and long-term survival of populations. By using ultrasound equipment to assess whether individual anteaters are ready for reproduction, researchers can better understand population dynamics and inform conservation efforts.
Among the individuals being studied is an incredibly rare albino anteater—the only one known to be monitored in the wild. This remarkable animal symbolizes both the fragility and wonder of the species and emphasizes the importance of ongoing research and protection.
Once a mystery to science, the giant armadillo has slowly been coming into the spotlight thanks to long-term research efforts in the Pantanal. This elusive creature is a keystone species—its burrows provide homes for dozens of other animals, making it essential to the health of the ecosystem.
Despite being classified as Vulnerable to extinction, very little was known about the giant armadillo’s reproductive cycle or behavior until recently. That’s where new technologies like portable ultrasound come in.
Studying reproduction in rare, discreet species like this is incredibly difficult. Ultrasound technology now allows scientists to non-invasively monitor and study wild armadillos. This data is key for developing strategies to manage populations both in the wild and in captivity.
To address these challenges, Greater Good Charities is proud to partner with ICAS (Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres)—a leading wildlife conservation organization in Brazil—through a multi-faceted approach to save giant anteaters and armadillos.
Our partnership supports two cornerstone conservation initiatives:
With support from Greater Good Charities, ICAS is acquiring portable ultrasound equipment for use in the field. This equipment is vital for advancing reproductive studies in both species. It allows researchers to assess sexual maturity and monitor pregnancies in real time—without the need for invasive procedures. Additional funds will help train local veterinarians in ultrasound interpretation, ensuring the data collected is accurate and actionable.
These projects are making a difference—but they need your help to continue and expand.
Giant anteaters and armadillos are more than just fascinating animals—they are vital parts of South America's natural heritage and biodiversity. Through science, partnership, and community support, we can ensure these species don’t vanish from the wild.
Let’s stand together to protect them—before it’s too late.